Monday, January 26, 2009

Day 240 - Jan 26, 2009

My son took 96 steps around the ward today and I missed it! I am so dang proud of him, but I so wish I had been there! He really is just doing an amazing job of walking and I noticed his balance is becoming better and better too.

He also had some of his staples removed today. The ones that were due to his skull being replaced were taken out, but the ones around his shunt were not. I am not sure what that's about.

And he and Breezy got to meet a few football players today too. They weren't either of the teammates from the Super Bowl, but they are here to watch it. I will have to upload a picture of that tomorrow night though because Breezy took them with her camera and she went home already.

My sister and I actually took off today and went to the beach. We had a great day just lounging around and we also went to John's Pass and walked around the boardwalk shops.

I did learn of a clothing company today that blocks 97% of all UVA and UVB rays too. It's called Solumbra and a woman that I talked to at the beach had it on because she has skin cancer. She said it keeps her cool and keeps all the sun off of her - and she can even swim in it! I found the company online and dang - it is EXPENSIVE - but it's worth it to be able to take him out without him having heat stroke from all the layers they say we need. Now I can only hope that he will wear it - he's so dang particular about how he dresses...

13 comments:

Unknown said...

Leslie,

It's Sandi (Dean). I JUST found out about all this yesterday morning, and havent left my computer since (other than for 4 hours to sleep). I have read every word on every page of this blog, and just cried and prayed and prayed.

I am so sorry for what Kevin (and you and Breezy) have been, and are going through. I am devastated that this has happened, and amazed at his progress. He looks wonderful now, and you've obviously taken such GOOD care of him! I wish there were something I could do to help. Financially, things are as they were last time you saw me.... LONG story, but this isnt about me.

Im sending all my love, tons and tons of hugs, and wishing that somehow I could do more. Please tell Kevin that Im so very proud of him, and that he is CONSTANTLY and I do mean CONSTANTLY in my prayers. You and Breezy are as well. Im praying you get your house, and Im so thankful you've got a good van.

God Bless you all, and I am glued to your blog. I miss you all, and I am still trying to get over what has happened to Kevin.

Ive told you before, and I will say it again. I think you are an amazing mom. Your kids turned of WONDERFULLY, and now look at you. You havent left your son's side, and I knew you wouldnt.

Please give him a kiss and a hug from me, and also one from me to you and to Breezy.

So sorry this is so choppy... Im near tears again.

Love you all,

Sandi

Anonymous said...

He walked 96 steps! GO KEVIN!

Is the CSF issues resolved?

Does Kevin still need more plastic surgery ? I think he looks GREAT! I know more PS was mentioned right after this last major surgery.

Looks like he is getting some pounds put back on him, which he badly needed to do.

Any news on the house?

Happy to hear you got a R&R day with your sister.

Long-time RN said...

So wonderful to read about Kevin's daily progress!

Also good to read of your relaxing day, Leslie.

Solumbra products are a great idea. Memobers of our family use their products d/t basal cell CA issues. The style definitely leans to conservative casual, but knowing you only through this blog, I'd bet you just might be able to convince the manufacturers to design a few items specifically for a younger/skateboard/wounded warrior group of consumers.

Anonymous said...

Leslie,
I have been following your blog since December - and have read every part of it. Just wanted you to know I AM SO VERY PROUD OF KEVIN and I check his progress daily. He is a brave man and has made great progress in his recovery. I often share your entries with my own sons and they ask how he is. You should know that you and your family have touched so many other peoples' lives. You are a wonderful Mom with equally wonderful kids. Keep hanging in there, I'm sure everything is going to continue to get better. Thank your son for me, and let him know the world is VERY proud of him and pulling for him every day.
With much respect and admiration,
Bridget (Ohio)

blsnow said...

Way to go Kevin!!!! I'm so proud of you. Keep up the good work!

Leslie, I wanted to ask you how Kevin's speech was coming along? I'm so glad that he is doing so much better, and if you need anything you know where to find me. You guys are all still in my daily prayers.

All my love to the three of you,

Brittany Snow

proudsoldiermom said...

Kevin , That is absolutely WONDERFUL to hear!! Talk about a hero. You are certainly one to me.

Anonymous said...

Go Kevin!!!!!!! We're so proud of you!!!!

=D

Lori Peoria said...

Kevin is a trooper! Of course he is, his mom rocks! Okay, once you get the clothing be sure to stencil skulls, Atruey (however you spell their name), Steelers and anything else he likes on it, he will be sure to were it then! :)

Anonymous said...

I told you he'd be walking within a month! YAY!!!! Healing will come in leaps and bounds now...you just watch!

Anonymous said...

Hi Les,

So happy to see that Kevin is enjoying the normal, day-to-day activities again. While he still has a long way to go, I believe he has conquered the hardest part. It is so nice to see him enjoy eating out, going to the movies, etc...

He continues to be in our prayers each and every day.

We miss you at work!!! We miss you always!!!

Take care!

Kristen M.

EmUrso said...

Les,
My husband and I are in Orlando, and plan on coming over to Tampa to see Kevin (and you) maybe tomorrow (Wed.) or Thursday this week. Could I get a phone number to reach either you or Breezy, so we know where to find you? My husband is a pastor, and knows Kevin. (He is the pastor in Creekside, and we are bummed we didn't realize Kim was down...we may have tried to come earlier this week to see her too) You could either call or text my cell phone if you don't mind giving out a number. (724-422-2291) Also, you can let us know if one day works better than another we will try for. WE just figured we were so close, and he has been wanting to see Kevin, so this seems to work. Let us know. Thanks,
Emily

Anonymous said...

OH my gosh, that is so awesome! GO Kevin! He should be so proud of himself.

I'm glad you got some time to hang out with your sister and relax, you deserve it.

Praying that God will continue to strengthen Kevin and improve his cognitive, as well as physical, skills!

The Rock said...

96 Steps to a NEW LIFE ! Wonderful !
Best News I had in the last 24 Hours.
God bless u all !
Hugs
Petra